Detroit, Michigan
- Rock Climbing search results
Premier Listings

Rock Climbing Terms to Know

Rock climbing is a sport that relies strongly upon communication for safety. If you're planning on going rock climbing with a guide, or checking out an indoor rock wall or climbing gym, first familiarize yourself with the following terminology.

Buildering - If you are a first time climber, or a novice, the training and practice you undergo is called buildering. Before you climb the face of a mountain, working with a trainer on an indoor climbing wall is best. Rock climbing gyms can help you with buildering lessons as well as shoe and gear rental.

Belayer - The belayer is the second person involved in a climb. The climber is heading up the wall, and is fully dressed in gear. The belayer, on the other hand, is at the base of the mountain, holding onto the rope that is attached to both the climber and an anchor at the summit.

Harness - The climber wears a harness that goes over the legs, shoulders, and chest. This harness is where gear can be clipped in order to attach the climber to the safety rope. Belayers also typically wear a harness and attach the climber's rope to themselves in case their hands slip.

Carabiner - A caribiner is an oval shaped tool that is used to attach ropes to the harness. Carabiners are exceptionally strong and must meet many safety regulations.

Rappel - Rappeling is a technique used by the climber to get down from the summit. Wearing extra gripping climbing shoes, he or she eases down the rope by pushing away from the wall while sliding.

Rock climbing can be an exhilarating adventure, taking place either indoors or outdoors. It involves lots of rope, harnesses, special shoes for gripping, and other supplies and equipment. It can be a great way to stay in physical shape, as it involves lots of muscle work, dexterity, and a certain technique to achieve.
Anyone can try rock climbing these days. Becoming popular within the 2000s as a recreational option, simulated rock climbing walls can be located within indoor gyms, fitness centers, amusement parks, and even on cruise ships. Alternatively, people can go rock climbing in the great outdoors, to summits on actual mountains and boulders. However, they need the proper equipment, gear, and accessories in order to belay and rappel safely, such as harnesses to hold them in place.
Rock climbing equipment can include shoes, carabiners, rope, climbing holds, and helmets. These can all be found at retail or wholesale sporting goods stores. Rock climbing enthusiasts can head to their local mall or go online to purchase the necessary supplies. They may also purchase supplies from indoor rock climbing facilities. At such facilities, people can reserve a time slot to go rock climbing on fake boulders. Here, they can train or take free or fee-based lessons.
There are even rock climbing clubs that go out on rock climbing adventures, either in the summer time in arid conditions, or in the winter with the added challenge of ice covered mountains. It's always important to have a guide or fellow rock climber with you to ensure utmost safety. Go online to brush up on the basics of this sport and learn where you can take rock climbing classes in your area. Many qualified guides are available to lead students on training exercises, providing lessons on technique, safety precautions, and essential gear.